Since we're talking about cell phones - how about the other side - how folks in the states might call you in Benin.

I've been using Nobelcom for a long, long time. They're rates good - and call quality is usually ok, but it varies a lot, and it can sometimes be hard to get connected - though most of the time the call goes through right away.

NobelCom's Benin Rates for calling cell phones

The skypeout rates to Benin look ok, too. But I've never used them for international stuff.

Anyone have any other suggestions?

From what I've gathered, Benin has a GSM cellular network. That means that all of us lucky people with phones that accept SIM cards (Cingular, AT&T, T-Mobile) have the option of bringing our own phones. From what I've read cell use is pretty inexpensive in Benin.

I myself am planning to take my phone with me. I had my service stop the day we leave the country, in case I needed to make last minute calls. If it turns out that the phone won't work on their network, it's too expensive, or I just plain don't care... I don't feel at all bad about chucking my phone. If it does end up working, chances are my ghetto phone will be comprable to handsets they have there, so I'll be able to save some cash.

I don't know if anyone else had a similar plan, but if you do end up bringing your phone, make sure you call your service provider and have them unlock your phone. If you don't get this done, your phone will definetly not work in Benin. The service providers here make sure it's hard to switch companies, so they lock out any SIM cards but their own. If you call and explain they shouldn't have any problem doing it for you. Some phones can be unlocked remotely, but if you have an older phone like me they'll give you an unlock code that you'll have to key in manually when we get in country.

In any case, 1 week to go! I think I'm about ready to start packing now. (You think I'm joking... but I haven't started yet!)